Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

For those suffering from addiction, their condition may not be readily apparent. Furthermore, those suffering from addiction may be resistant to any notion that they are dependent. In fact, most of those addicted to a substance believe that they remain in control and can quit at any time. That’s why recognizing and acknowledging the symptoms of addiction is so important.

With alcohol, it can be even more difficult to recognize a problem. Unlike some drugs, alcohol is perfectly legal to consume and may even be socially expected, such as a toast at a wedding. A drink each day is also touted by many health professionals as beneficial, so how does a person cross from healthy, everyday use into addiction?

First, it’s important to understand that certain groups are more at risk for alcohol addiction than others. Native Americans – whether American Indians or Native Alaskans – have a higher predisposition towards alcohol abuse. Genetics may play another role as well in that those whose parents have alcohol addictions are more likely to be addicted to alcohol themselves. Those with social disorders, such as depression or anxiety, may also use alcohol as a way to combat these disorders and may grow reliant on alcohol in the same way someone may with prescription medication. Those who fall into any of these groups should be particularly wary of alcohol.

Many of the symptoms associated with alcohol addiction are social in nature. Lying to friends and family about the amount of alcohol consumed or how often can be an indication of an underlying addiction. Those who feel remorse for their drinking may also be at risk. If others, such as friends and family, notice there may be a problem, it may be possible that the person is at risk for addiction as the person involved is rarely as perceptive as others.

Drinking may also cause hardships in a person’s financial and family life. Drinking to excess can lead to several negative physical responses and leave a person unable to function through daily life. If drinking inhibits a person’s daily activities like going to work or school or neglecting other commitments, it may be indicative of addiction. The problems alcohol addiction creates may also lead the person to drinking more to relax, and drinking to unwind from the day’s events can be another telling symptom of alcohol addiction.

Physical symptoms of alcohol addiction or withdrawal include irritability, fatigue, anxiety, uncontrollable sweating and shaking, difficulty sleeping, seizures and depression. As the physical signs of alcohol addiction typically come after sustained periods of alcohol abuse, it’s imperative to seek help right away after experiencing any of these symptoms. Though many struggling with alcohol addiction long to quit, it may prove difficult to do so alone. The good news is that no one has to. If you or a loved one is struggling with any of these symptoms, get help today.